As a parent, it’s natural to want the best for your baby, especially when it comes to their health and development. One condition that often goes unnoticed and underaddressed in infants is torticollis, a condition that traditionally has been understood to affect the muscles in your baby's neck. Early detection and physical therapy intervention are crucial to ensure healthy development and avoid long-term consequences. Let's explore what torticollis is, why early treatment is essential, and what could happen if left untreated.
What is Torticollis?
Torticollis, often called "wry neck," has historically been though to occur when the muscles on one side of a baby's neck are tighter than on the other side. This causes the baby’s head to tilt to one side while their chin turns toward the opposite shoulder. Newer information that is shedding light on the system of our fascia suggests that there may be more to this condition than just tight neck muscles. Torticollis may, in some cases, involve structures down into the abdomen and even the feet. While it can look alarming, torticollis is quite common and treatable, especially when caught early.
What Causes Torticollis in Infants?
In many cases, torticollis develops in the womb or during delivery. It can be caused by the baby's position in the uterus, muscle injury during birth, or other mechanical forces placed on the baby's body such as excessive pull on the umbilical cord. Some babies may also develop torticollis after birth if they consistently sleep or rest with their head in the same position.
Why Early Physical Therapy Intervention is Important
Promotes Proper Muscle Balance: Early physical therapy helps to stretch and strengthen the neck muscles, encouraging a full range of motion. Therapists trained in infant body work or craniosacral therapy can also address tension through the abdomen and the rest of the fascial system that can be contributing to the issue. The earlier therapy starts, the quicker the muscles and other structures can be balanced, reducing strain on the neck and head.
Prevents Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly): Infants with torticollis often favor one side when resting, which can lead to flat spots on the head. Physical therapy can help your baby regain the ability to turn their head evenly to both sides, reducing the risk of developing plagiocephaly.
Supports Healthy Motor Development: Babies with untreated torticollis may experience delays in reaching motor milestones, such as rolling over, sitting up, and crawling. Early therapy ensures your baby builds the foundational neck and head control necessary for normal development.
Improves Visual Development: Torticollis can affect your baby’s ability to track objects with their eyes, as they may struggle to turn their head fully. Physical therapy helps restore proper head alignment, allowing for better eye movement and visual coordination.
The Consequences of Untreated Torticollis
Delayed Motor Skills: Untreated torticollis can lead to delays in important motor milestones like rolling, sitting, and crawling. This can set back your child’s physical development, making it harder for them to catch up as they grow.
Permanent Head and Neck Asymmetry: If left untreated, the tight muscles in the neck can result in lasting head and facial asymmetry. While this may seem like just a cosmetic issue, it can lead to difficulties with jaw alignment and, in some cases, speech development.
Chronic Pain and Postural Issues in Adulthood: Torticollis that persists beyond infancy can lead to chronic neck and shoulder pain, postural problems, and limited range of motion in the neck as the child grows. These issues can continue into adulthood, potentially requiring more invasive treatments later in life.
Compromised Balance and Coordination: Muscle imbalances can affect overall body coordination and balance, potentially leading to difficulties in physical activities and sports as your child gets older.
How Our Pediatric Physical Therapy Services Can Help
At our Waukesha-based pediatric physical therapy practice, we specialize in treating infants with torticollis. Your therapist will create a customized treatment plan to gently stretch and strengthen your baby’s neck muscles, restore balance, and promote healthy motor development by taking a whole-body approach. By addressing torticollis early, we can help your baby grow and thrive without the long-term complications of untreated torticollis.
Worried your baby may have torticollis? Or maybe you've seen other therapists before but haven't successfully resolved the issue? Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and take the first step toward helping your child develop strong, healthy neck muscles for life!
This quick guide highlights the importance of early intervention, but it’s always best to consult a professional for personalized advice.
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